Subway Series opener:

Ellsbury CF
Gardner LF
Rodriguez DH
Teixeira 1B
McCann C
Beltran RF
Headley 3B
Drew 2B
Gregorius SS

RHP Michael Pineda

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With Chris Capuano set to open the season on the 15-Day disabled list, a competition for the final slot in the Yankees rotation is underway in spring training. With a variety of contenders for the spot, one name stands out as the most logical option for Joe Girardi’s squad: prospect right-hander Bryan Mitchell.

Just under a year ago, Mitchell was named as the Double-A Trenton Thunder’s opening day starter, and spent media day telling us that his goal was to make it to New York by season’s end. He made it much sooner, earning a call-up later that month to serve as an emergency pitcher in the Yankees pen. He wound up getting a couple more cups of coffee throughout the season, eventually making two appearances for the team.

Now, the 23-year-old North Carolina native is square in the middle of a fight for the final spot in the big league rotation. Though he doesn’t carry the experience of fellow competitors Adam Warren, Esmil Rogers, and Chase Whitley, Mitchell has one major advantage: potential.

One scout I spoke to in Trenton last year compared Mitchell to a younger A.J. Burnett: he has the stuff to succeed, but often the numbers didn’t match up. The Burnett comparison may scare some Yankee fans, but those are the ones who forget that while inconsistent, Burnett took the mound every single time with the potential to be overpowering. In Mitchell’s case, multiple opposing hitters coming through Trenton early last year named Mitchell as one of the best pitchers they had seen in the minor leagues.

So why Mitchell, the inexperienced flamethrower who could easily return to Triple-A and anchor the Scranton rotation as he develops? The truth is, of the four realistic options, Mitchell is the only one who could potentially stick in the rotation, even after Capuano is set to return. Joe Girardi has already acknowledged that Mitchell is only viewed as a starter, while all of the other candidates have experience in the bullpen and may be more valuable there.

Mitchell is one who, when he’s on, is electric. He has some command issues, much like his MLB comp Burnett did. As a rookie, he certainly will have a few clunkers on the mound. But he’ll also have performances much like the one I witnessed from the Thunder press box in late August of 2013, when, with the season on the line, he turned in 7 1/3 innings of one run baseball, while striking out ten and surrendering just four hits.

Thunder manager Tony Franklin referred to Mitchell as “fantastic” that night, a word which we would hear frequently from the veteran manager’s mouth regarding Mitchell. He frequently classified Mitchell as having a live arm, and early in 2014, told me the right-hander “had the potential to be dominant.”

As your fifth starter, wouldn’t you rather take a chance on the guy who could establish himself as a solid option going forward, as opposed to run-of-the-mill options such as Esmil Rogers and Chase Whitley or the guy whose greatest value is pitching out of the bullpen, like Adam Warren? I certainly would.

Follow Dan on Twitter at @danpfeiffer74 for all your Yankees MiLB news and notes.

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Yoan Moncada may be the best 19-year-old to ever sign out of Cuba, but the New York Yankees won’t be breaking the bank for him. Multiple sources within the organization have indicated that the Yankees are “highly unlikely” to surpass a $30 million contract for the Cuban phenom – a sentiment echoed by George King and Joel Sherman on Saturday. After taxes and penalties, committing to a $30 million deal for Moncada would cost the Yankees $60 million.

Moncada, 19, had worked out for the Yankees three times, including twice in the past week at the team’s complex with Hank Steinbrenner present.

The Yankees reportedly “love” Moncada’s skill set and feel he could be the team’s next great infielder, but the financial commitment could be too much to bring him aboard. The financial commitment is especially large when considering the team already has players such as Jorge Mateo in the fold and prepared to head to Pulaski for the 2015 season. Mateo, who cost the team $225,000 in 2013, was recently ranked 3rd among Yankee prospects by Baseball America.

Moncada is not considered to be a major league ready prospect, and may follow the path of fellow Cuban prospect Jorge Soler, who played his first full season in A-ball before jumping to Double-A, Triple-A and the majors in his second full year.

Despite not being an immediate contributor at the MLB level, Moncada’s large signing bonus will come because of his future potential. He grades out as a future “70” on the standard 20-80 scouting scale. The switch-hitting infielder has been projected by some scouts to be as good, if not better than, Yasiel Puig.

Though the Yankees are expected to be major players for Moncada, they are not alone in pursuit. The Dodgers and the Red Sox have been consistently mentioned as a potential landing spot for the Cuban star, and the Padres and Brewers have each been mentioned as dark-horse candidates within the past 24 hours.

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Severino and Lindgren have both moved quickly through the system, with Severino conquering three levels this season and Lindgren breezing through four. However, their respective innings totals, coupled with the lack of a 40-man roster spot will keep them from making their big league debuts this season.

Thunder manager Tony Franklin told me yesterday that Severino was not yet at his innings limit, but there was no need to keep pushing the 20-year-old pitcher. Through 24 starts this season, Severino has tossed 113 1/3 innings after throwing just 44 last season. He also missed a couple of weeks in early August with an oblique injury.

Lindgren had appeared to be the more likely of the two to be promoted, but that ship sailed with a clunker in what is probably his final outing at Double-A. Selected in the 2^nd round of June’s Amateur Draft, Lindgren has currently thrown 80 1/3 innings, more than almost any other full-time reliever at the big league level this season.

Fatigue and/or a lack of composure appeared to set in during Lindgren’s outing on Saturday, where he was charged with five runs (four earned) in just one-third of an inning. Video of his entire outing can be found here. Afterwards, one team source seemed doubtful that Lindgren would make the majors this season.

Follow Dan on Twitter at @danpfeiffer74 for all the latest Trenton Thunder coverage.

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TRENTON – Luis Severino, arguably the top prospect in the Yankees’ organization, has been placed on the disabled list at Double-A Trenton with an oblique injury.

The 20-year-old Severino has dominated at Charleston and Tampa this season, and looked very sharp in his first three starts with the Thunder. In 21 starts over three levels this season, Severino is 6-3 with a 2.36 ERA and 118 strikeouts in 103 innings pitched, including a 2-0 record and 1.84 ERA with Trenton.

Severino was not available during pre-game to comment on the injury because he was in the trainer’s room, but Thunder manager Tony Franklin deemed the move “precautionary” during his media session. Franklin indicated that Severino would not be reevaluated for at least a week.

“No need to rush. Everybody knows it’s a mild oblique,” Franklin said. “He’s working at it and trying to feel his way through this. I think this is a good move.”

Franklin also remained coy when asked when his top pitcher would return to the mound, indicating that the determination of whether Severino would pitch again this season had still not been made.

“I’m not saying he’s done for the year, but I can’t give you a specific date when we think he’s going to return,” Franklin noted. “It all depends on how he’s going to feel. He’s a tough kid, he wants to get out there, no question about that.”

“We’re going to see how he feels in a few weeks or a week or so and then we can decide,” Franklin added. “If we can get him back out, great. If not, there’s always next year.”

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However, it’s not all bad. Gary Sanchez has put his May benching behind him to produce strong numbers and hold onto the top spot. Luis Severino has exploded onto the scene as a legitimate top-of-the-rotation prospect, and Rob Refsnyder looks like he could be the team’s starting second baseman in 2015.

Let’s take a look at 15 players who could make an impact on the Yankees’ future:

1) Gary Sanchez, C, Age 21
2014 with Trenton: .268 BA, 10 HR, 47 RBI, .335 OBP

Sanchez has been considered the top prospect in the New York Yankees farm system for a couple of years now, but it is closer than ever before. His defense has improved, and his bat is just about ready to move up a level, but questions about his maturity still linger. The 21-year-old was benched for five games earlier this season for disciplinary reasons, leading many to wonder whether he has the mental makeup to succeed in the big leagues. The skill set is there, but Sanchez must mature before a promotion to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre is in order.

2) Luis Severino, RHP, Age 20
2014 with Charleston, Tampa, & Trenton: 5-3, 2.41 ERA, 104/22 K/BB in 93.1 IP

Severino dominated the South Atlantic League throughout the first half of the season, and needed less than a month in High-A before earning the aggressive promotion to Double-A Trenton. He did not disappoint in his first start, tossing five innings while allowing just one run. Despite his small frame, Severino regularly sits in the mid-90’s with his fastball, and frequently has been clocked in the high-90’s. His polished three-pitch repertoire has earned him comparisons to Pedro Martinez, and anyone could argue that he has overtaken Sanchez as the farm system’s crown jewel.

3) Aaron Judge, OF, Age 21
2014 with Charleston & Tampa: .324 BA, 13 HR, 62 RBI, .425 OBP

After being a first round pick last year, Judge exploded onto the scene in his pro debut this year. Despite his 6-foot-7 frame, Judge has a rather compact swing that allows him to make consistent contact and gives him a good deal of power at the plate. Judge is the real deal, and could very well be the Yankees’ right fielder of the future. He could get a cup of coffee with Trenton for the final week or two of the season.

4) Rob Refsnyder, 2B, Age 23
2014 with Trenton & Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: .322 BA, 12 HR, 47 RBI, .389 OBP

Since being drafted in the fifth round in 2012, all Refsnyder has done is hit. This year, fans have taken notice of the converted outfielder, and many have been clamoring for Refsnyder to make his MLB debut. Though his bat is close, his defense still needs a bit of work. Despite 12 home runs this season, Refsnyder is not a power hitter. Instead, his ability to make solid contact and a great eye for the strike zone profiles as a nice fit in the two-hole or towards the bottom of a strong lineup. He will likely compete for the Yankees’ second base job in spring training next year.

5) Ian Clarkin, LHP, Age 19
2014 with Charleston: 3-3, 3.36 ERA, 68/20 K/BB in 61.2 IP

Another first round selection from a year ago, Clarkin is finally healthy and living up to the hype as one of the best young left-handers in the South Atlantic League. His fastball-curveball combination has been lethal to opposing hitters, resulting in a .239 batting average against. Clarkin has the potential to be a second or third starter in the Yankee rotation, but he needs plenty more development time in the minors. He will likely move up to Tampa next season, where more experienced hitters will try their luck against his sweeping breaking ball.

6) Peter O’Brien, C/1B, Age 24
2014 with Tampa & Trenton: .263 BA. 30 HR, 64 RBI, .280 OBP

After 22 home runs in 2013, O’Brien has cemented himself as the top power hitting prospect in the Yankee farm system with 30 home runs so far this season. He’s earned praise from former Yankee great Reggie Jackson, and may have finally found himself a home defensively playing first base. However, he continues to struggle to make consistent contact at the plate, which has been highlighted by his 36.7 percent strikeout rate. He’s been compared to Shelly Duncan, though I tend to believe he may develop into a bit of a better contact hitter than Duncan.

7) Eric Jagielo, 3B, Age 22
2014 with Tampa: .246 BA, 11 HR, 36 RBI, .319 OBP

Jagielo’s first full professional season has been marred with injury, and reports on him prior to getting hurt were “blisteringly bad.” One scout told me that Jagielo will “never make it out of Double-A,” and indicated that he doesn’t have the arm or the fielding ability to last at third base. He could soon be ticketed for a corner outfield spot, once he figures out his approach at the plate. At only 22 years old, the breakout potential still exists from the 26^th overall pick in last year’s draft, and his left-handed power swing could help support nice major league numbers someday.

8) Greg Bird, 1B, Age 21
2014 with Tampa: .276 BA, 6 HR, 25 RBI, .366 OBP

Bird is following up his 2013 breakout season with a solid showing in the Florida State League for the Tampa Yankees. He possesses a good eye and strike zone discipline, and consistently makes solid contact. Bird has the power to be a solid 18-20 home run player someday, though a bad back that forced his move from behind the plate to first base could limit him. He’s an average defender at first base. One scout indicated that Bird reminded him of former Yankee first baseman Tino Martinez, both at the plate and on the field.

9) Mason Williams, OF, Age 22
2014 with Trenton: .207 BA, 3 HR, 24 RBI, .280 OBP, 20 SB

Williams is a plus defender who has great speed, but all too often does not use it. He has looked lost at the plate since being promoted to Trenton late last season, and it is fair to question whether he will remain their regular center fielder now that Jake Cave has joined the Thunder. Williams has a world of talent, but will need to put the extra effort in to turn that talent into results. He still seems like a potential major leaguer due to his defense, but his ability to get on base is a serious question moving forward.

10) Jake Cave, OF, Age 21
2014 with Tampa & Trenton: .297 BA, 3 HR, 25 RBI, .351 OBP, 10 SB

Cave was pegged by many as a breakout prospect prior to 2014, and lived up to the expectations during the season’s first half in Tampa. Promoted to Trenton after the Eastern League All-Star break, Cave has struggled at the plate but figures to settle in soon. He’s a contact hitter with some speed, and though a center fielder by trade, can play all three outfield positions. He’s got enough tools to make the major leagues someday, and so far, the results have matched his talent. He reminds me of Brett Gardner, though the speed is a notch below Gardner’s level.

11) Slade Heathcott, OF, Age 23
2014 with Trenton: .182, 0 HR, 1 RBI, .250 OBP

In his return from offseason knee surgery, Heathcott lasted just nine games with Trenton before having to undergo the knife again. A talented ballplayer who plays his heart out, Heathcott has never played more than 103 games in a season. A solid contact hitter with a strong arm defensively, Heathcott could be a solid outfielder in the major leagues someday. The Yankees thought enough of him last offseason to add him to the 40-man roster and protect him from the Rule V draft. If not for the vast injury concerns, Heathcott would be in the top five on this list, and I believe he still has enough talent to return to that spot.

12) Manny Banuelos, LHP, Age 23
2014 with Tampa & Trenton: 0-3, 4.59 ERA, 47/17 K/BB in 49 IP

Banuelos has struggled quite a bit as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery that cost him almost two years of development. His command in Trenton this year has been spotty at best, and he has operated on a pitch count for much of the season. Banuelos still possesses a plus curveball with a decent fastball. He won’t make New York this season, but could be a candidate at some point in 2015 for a ticket to the Bronx. If he is able to discover better command, Banuelos could be a solid third starter.

13) Bryan Mitchell, RHP, Age 23
2014 with Trenton & Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: 3-6, 4.72 ERA, 69/37 K/BB in 74.1 IP

Mitchell has looked very good most of the times I have seen him, and has spent a few days on the big league roster as an emergency pitcher. He possesses a solid repertoire, but has often had trouble with his command. Once scout compared him to a “poor man’s A.J. Burnett” and indicated that while he could be an effective back-of-the-rotation starter, his future is likely that of a late-inning reliever. As a starter, he has touched 98 miles per hour with his fastball, and could see a velocity spike as a reliever.

14) Abiatal Avelino, SS, Age 19
2014 with Charleston: .294 BA, 0 HR, 8 RBI, .349 OBP, 11 SB

Avelino won’t be the first to succeed Derek Jeter, but he could be the long-term solution at shortstop. He possesses a combination of good contact ability and great speed. At just 19 years old, Avelino is still developing physically and could build a little bit of power into his game, but will never be a home run hitter. He has missed almost two months with a quad injury, and I suspect he might have been higher on this list had he played a full season in the South Atlantic League. He’s a prospect to watch over the next few years.

15) Rob Segedin, 3B, Age 25
2014 with Trenton & Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: .275 BA, 8 HR, 50 RBI, .385 OBP

After missing much of the 2013 season with a hip injury, Segedin returned to Trenton looking like a different ballplayer. His range and his overall defense at third base had improved significantly, recording just 11 errors in 66 games at the position this year, compared to nine errors in 16 games a year ago. Always billed as having a solid bat, Segedin showed great control of the strike zone, and earned a promotion to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre halfway thru a red-hot month of July. He may be a “four corners” guy at the next level, but should be able to hit his way to the show in 2015.

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Top Yankee prospect Gary Sanchez has found himself in the doghouse at Double-A Trenton, where he has been benched for disciplinary reasons. Sanchez was originally in Wednesday’s lineup before being scratched, and was on the bench again on Thursday.

After Thursday’s game, Franklin clarified the situation for Trentonian beat writer Nick Peruffo.

“It was disciplinary action,” Franklin told Peruffo. “I needed to take care of that today, to get things clarified and cleared up. I’m not going to tell you what it was, but it was a violation of some of our guidelines and I needed to take care of it. Gary is out of there for a couple of days until we decide he deserves to play again, plain and simple.”

“It’s more to it than just playing,” Franklin added. “It’s conducting yourself like a professional at all times.”

Franklin is generally always protective of his players. Back in 2008, he went as far as to defend former Yankee farmhand Jose Tabata, who left the stadium in the middle of a game. Yet with Sanchez, he did not offer that same layer of protection, leading me to believe that the issue is actually rather serious.

Franklin, Sanchez, and the Thunder coaching staff had a closed door meeting after their 4-3 victory on Thursday, which, as Peruffo pointed out on Twitter, was at least the second time such a meeting has occurred this season.

With rehabbing catcher Francisco Cervelli making the trip with the Thunder to New Britain for this weekend’s series, it seems entirely possible that Sanchez may not see the field until the next homestand begins on Tuesday. In fact, it is very possible that the closed door meeting was to inform Sanchez that he would not even be making the trip to New Britain.

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After twelve games with the Trenton Thunder, one thing about Peter O’Brien is clear. His power is a trait that has rarely been seen in the Eastern League before. To his new manager Tony Franklin, O’Brien is a player in uncharted territory.

“No. Never. It hasn’t happened in the eight seasons I’ve been here. He’s the first,” Franklin said when asked if he had ever seen a player hit for this type of power right away in Double-A. “We’ve had some guys here with legitimate power…When you see Pete hit a baseball, you have to say to yourself, that’s a little different than everyone else.”

“There’s something special about a guy who can stand up there and hit a ball 300-plus feet and put three runs on the board,” Franklin added. “Pete’s got easy power. That ball he hit here the other night, it just was very towering. Once it left the bat, I couldn’t see it. I couldn’t look up high enough. It was out of the ballpark in a hurry.”

The shot described by Franklin has become a frequent happening in O’Brien’s short tenure with the team. In just twelve games as a member of the Thunder, the former second-round draft choice has ripped seven home runs. Between Trenton and High-A Tampa this season, O’Brien has laced 17 home runs, second in Minor League Baseball behind only Texas Rangers top prospect Joey Gallo.

Despite some scouts believing he has holes in his swing, O’Brien’s bat has left a good first impression on Franklin during his first two weeks with the Thunder.

“When you see Pete hit a baseball, you have to say to yourself, ‘That’s a little different than everyone else’,” Franklin told me. “He puts a swing on the ball and he squares the ball up, and the ball will go out of the ballpark. That’s pretty doggone good. Barry Bonds had that kind of power. It’s pretty obvious to me the kid’s got something very special about him.”

The comparisons to legendary power hitters did not stop there. Hall-of-Famer and former Yankee outfielder Reggie Jackson was at ARM & HAMMER Park for a four-game series against the Harrisburg Senators that concluded on Thursday. In speaking with Jackson prior to the series finale, the Special Advisor to the Yankees voiced his admiration of O’Brien.

“Oh boy,” Jackson said while raising an eyebrow. “You gotta look at Strawberry to see that kind of power.”

“He hits like me,” the Hall-of-Famer turned Special Advisor to the Yankees added. “And that’s a compliment.”

Jackson did not stop there, indicating that O’Brien’s power reminded him of great home run hitters such as Dave Kingman, Dick Allen, and Willie McCovey.

O’Brien’s ability to put the ball over the wall in any direction is not the only thing being noticed by Franklin and Jackson.
“It’s loud,” Franklin said of the sound the ball makes leaving O’Brien’s bat. “It’s different from all the other hitters…It’s the contact of the bat and the ball. It’s a totally different sound.”

Jackson concurred with Franklin’s assessment, indicating that the bat speed at impact with the ball is what leads to O’Brien hitting some of the loudest balls he’s ever seen.

As the legend of Peter O’Brien continues to grow through the minor leagues and the power comparisons to Hall-of-Famers such as Jackson and McCovey continue, it seems as if it would be difficult for a 23-year-old to maintain his focus on developing. For O’Brien, the focus is simply on remaining as consistent as possible in his approach, a task that can be difficult as he attempts to develop as a catcher while experimenting at different positions.

“I’m trying to be as consistent as possible with everything,” O’Brien said. “I know the things that I can do well, and I think [the key] is trying to make those things as consistent as possible.”

“Right now, catching is my priority,” O’Brien added. “I’m always going to give catching the benefit of the doubt, that’s always going to be first when I have to work on something.”

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Tony Franklin might be one of the best baseball people I’ve ever had the privilege of speaking with. He’s honest and respectful to the media, and players frequently rave about how hard he works to develop them and move them towards their goal of reaching the Major Leagues.

On Friday night, Franklin was recognized for the fine touch that has led to copious amounts of success during his eight year tenure with the Thunder. The victory was the 564th of his Eastern League managerial career, moving him past Dave Machamer for the most wins of any manager since the League became a Double-A affiliate in 1963.

Franklin, who holds a 564-460 record since taking the helm in Trenton back in 2006, was humble as always after Friday’s 8-2 victory over the Reading Fightin’ Phils.

“At the end of the year, I will reflect on it,” said Franklin. “It will hit me and I will think it’s pretty cool like I have done with most of the things that have happened to me; some very good things have happened to me over my career but as the season goes on, it is business as usual.”

Many of the players in Franklin’s locker room were with him to celebrate the 2013 Eastern League title, which was won without his team losing a game in the postseason. The title was the third of his in his tenure with the Thunder.

“I did not have a clue that this was ever possible,” Franklin told reporters. “I was just happy to have a job at that point and happy to be here working for the Yankees and coming to Trenton was a blessing. I have found a very nice home here; the people and the franchise here in Trenton have been really good to me and I am really happy to be part of it.”

The Yankees organization is happy that Franklin has been a part of the organization as well. His fine performance since taking the helm of the organization’s Double-A affiliate in 2006 has won him the support of many, including General Manager Brian Cashman.

“Tony is an ace. He’s such a pro,” said Cashman back in 2012. “He’s done so much for our franchise; our players are in great hands with him here. He’s obviously been great here in the community. He’s just got the perfect demeanor for what we’re looking for at this level. Trusting him with our assets at this level has been very easy to do since he came to us.”

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Everyone loves to look at prospects – the unproven players with a boatload of potential who could be the next face of their franchise. The reality is that most prospects never fully live up to that potential. For every Derek Jeter, there’s ten Eric Duncan’s or Brien Taylor’s. Just the same, here is the BronxPinstripes rankings of the top 20 prospects in the Yankees’ organization. This list was compiled based on my own observations serving as a beat writer for the Trenton Thunder, while also getting a chance to see kids who played for Scranton, Charleston, and Staten Island at various points last season.

1)      Gary Sanchez, C, Age 21
2013 Statistics with Tampa & Trenton: .253 BA, 15 HR, 71 RBI, .324 OBP

We have always known that Sanchez has a monster bat that will ultimately propel him to the major leagues. That was echoed when Baseball America rated Sanchez as the top power hitter in the New York Yankees farm system this offseason. However, the 21-year-old’s defense has always been shaky, causing many evaluators to wonder whether he would be able to stay behind the plate long-term. While his receiving skills still left some things to be desired, Sanchez showed some improvements on defense last year, bumping his caught stealing rate up to 44 percent. If that success carries over to 2014 and he can improve his receiving skills a bit, Sanchez will look to be a lock to remain a catcher into the future.

2)      Slade Heathcott, OF, Age 23
2013 Statistics with Trenton: .261 BA, 8 HR, 49 RBI, .327 OBP, 15 SB

Heathcott jumps two spots from my mid-season rankings last year after completing his first year at the Double-A level. Heathcott played more than 100 games in a season for the first time in his professional career, despite missing the season’s final few weeks with a knee injury. Though the signing of Jacoby Ellsbury could force Heathcott to move to a corner long-term, he remains a five-tool player with the ability to succeed in any of the three outfield positions. Heathcott could likely use a little more time seeing Double-A pitching, but it appears he will begin the year with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after being added to the Yankees’ 40-man roster this offseason.

3)      Mason Williams, OF, Age 22
2013 Statistics with Tampa & Trenton: .245 BA, 4 HR, 28 RBI, .304 OBP, 15 SB

Williams has jumped back and forth in my rankings in the past, often displaying phenomenal tools on the field, and a lack of maturity off the field. After seeing him for the final month of Trenton’s season, Williams’ strengths and weaknesses are clear. He’s an outstanding defender who will be in the discussion for a Gold Glove award on a yearly basis, and flashes blazing speed on the basepaths. However, Williams shows a lack of patience at the plate, often swinging at pitches outside the strike zone. Williams should be able to learn patience with time and develop into a solid top-of-the-order hitter for the Yankees. Much like Heathcott, Williams will likely have to play an outfield corner initially, as Jacoby Ellsbury figures to spend at least the first half of his contract manning center field in the Bronx.

4)      Eric Jagielo, 3B, Age 21
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees & Staten Island: .264 BA, 6 HR, 27 RBI, .376 OBP

Jagielo burst onto the scene after being selected 26^th overall in last year’s draft. A left-handed hitting third baseman who makes good contact and has plus power, Jagielo is perfectly tailored for Yankee Stadium. He has taken Dante Bichette’s role as the Yankees’ third baseman of the future, and it is possible he could skip Charleston altogether and start the season at High-A Tampa. Though his defense still needs some work, many scouts believe he can stick at third base for the long-term.

5)      Jose Ramirez, RHP, Age 24
2013 Statistics with Trenton & Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: 2-6, 3.67 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 78/36 K/BB in 73.2 IP

Jose Ramirez is already 24 years old and was limited to just 73.2 innings last season, and has not topped 115 innings pitched in his professional career, which does not bode well for his ability to be a starter long-term in most cases. However, Ramirez also sports a three-pitch arsenal that includes a 97 MPH fastball and the organization’s best changeup. Ramirez also throws a slider that usually sits between 85 and 87 MPH. His biggest drawback is his command, which he has difficulty sustaining later in games. One scout told me last season that Ramirez could either be a number two starter or a closer long-term.

6)      John Ryan Murphy, C, Age 22
2013 Statistics with Trenton, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, & New York: .262 BA, 12 HR, 47 RBI. .337 OBP

Murphy may have already had his first career highlight, catching Mariano Rivera’s final pitch of his career while getting a taste of the major leagues late last season, but it surely won’t be his last highlight. The 22-year-old catcher’s defense has improved enough that the Yankees could (and should) consider him as Brian McCann’s backup this season. However, it is likely he will end up back in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, at least for the start of the season. Murphy projects as a 12-15 home run hitter long-term, with much more power to the gaps. He sees pitches well already, and could be the top trading chip in the organization with McCann blocking his way and Gary Sanchez one level behind him.

7)      Manny Banuelos, LHP, Age 23
2013 Statistics: Did not pitch (Tommy John surgery)

Despite missing most of the last two seasons with an elbow injury, there is reason to believe that Banuelos can regain his status as the top pitching prospect in the organization. With a good fastball and a plus curveball/change-up combination, the 23-year-old still has plenty of development time left. Reports early this spring have indicated that Banuelos could be a candidate for the Yankees bullpen, but that would be a foolish move reminiscent of the team’s handling of Joba Chamberlain a few years back. If he is given a chance to work on his command in the minors for a bit longer, the Yankees could have a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter on their hands.

8)      Tyler Austin, OF, Age 22
2013 Statistics with Trenton: .257 BA, 6 HR, 40 RBI, .344 OBP

Many appear to have given up on Austin as a top prospect after a season derailed by a wrist injury, but not so much from me. Austin was a leader in the clubhouse for Trenton during the first half of the season, and his return sparked a winning streak throughout the playoffs. A natural hitter who has experience playing first base, third base, and right field in the minors, Austin will find a home at the major league level someday. He still has some trouble with breaking pitches, and is likely to return to Trenton, at least for the start of the season. If he is fully recovered from the wrist injury that ruined his 2013 campaign, Austin could destroy Eastern League pitching and earn an early promotion to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

9)      Greg Bird, 1B, Age 21
2013 Statistics with Charleston: .288 BA, 20 HR, 84 RBI, .428 OBP

Last year’s breakout season launches Bird into the top 10, and it’s likely that he is viewed as a potential heir apparent to Mark Teixeira’s throne at first base. Bird showed the ability to hit for average, power, and display a good eye at the plate. Converted from catcher after being drafted, Bird’s defense at first base is average, with his range being limited due to back problems. Though it is sometimes difficult for first basemen to advance through the minors, Bird’s bat should move him into the upper levels with no problems at all. Expect to see him in Trenton before the end of the season.

10)  Aaron Judge, OF, Age 21
2013 Statistics: Did not play professionally

Judge did not play after being drafted in June, though he still projects as a solid power-hitting outfielder. His mammoth frame (6-foo-7, 255 pounds) profiles him as a power-hitter from the right side of the plate, and he possesses decent speed as well. After playing center field in college, it seems likely that Judge will move to a corner in the minor leagues. Reports during the spring indicated that Judge could start the year at High-A Tampa, which would undoubtedly be an aggressive assignment by the Yankees. He could move quickly despite being just 21 years old, and could make it to Trenton towards the end of the minor league season if he stays healthy.

11)  Rafael DePaula, RHP, Age 23
2013 Statistics with Charleston & Tampa: 7-5, 4.29 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 146/53 K/BB in 113.1 IP

DePaula’s first half-season in Tampa was hardly what anyone expected after a dominant showing with Charleston earlier in the year. Even as a 23-year-old in High-A, DePaula’s plus fastball has him well on the radar as a potential high-end starting pitcher. DePaula also sports an above-average curveball and changeup, and seems comfortable using any of his three weapons as an out pitch. After being moved aggressively in his first season in the United States, the Yankees appear set to have DePaula remain in High-A to start the season, working on his command. There is a chance DePaula heads to Trenton around mid-season.

12)  Ian Clarkin, LHP, Age 19
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees: 0-2, 10.80 ERA, 1.80 WHIP, 4/4 K/BB in 5.0 IP

The third of three Yankees first-round picks in last year’s draft, Clarkin is a left-handed pitcher with a well-developed arsenal. His fastball normally sits between 90-92 MPH, though tops out around 94 MPH. As he continues to develop, he should add a little bit more velocity to the pitch. Clarkin’s best developed pitch is his curveball, which clocks in the mid-70’s and has “plus” potential as his out pitch. Clarkin’s changeup is a work in progress, but grades out as an average pitch.  His biggest drawback is his control, which is weakened by an inconsistent delivery. He will start the year in extended spring training, and will likely start either in the GCL or in Staten Island.

13)  Gosuke Katoh, 2B, Age 19
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees: .310 BA, 6 HR, 25 RBI, .402 OBP

After being a second round pick of the Yankees last June, Katoh burst onto the scene in the Gulf Coast League with a .310 batting average and a .402 on-base percentage. Katoh is a natural second baseman with a good glove defensively. He has displayed some of makings of a future top-of-the-order hitter, though with only half of a professional season under his belt, it is far too soon to tell. The ceiling is high for Katoh, but he is a long way from making an impact in New York.

14)  Luis Severino, RHP, Age 20
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees & Charleston: 4-2, 2.45 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 53/10 K/BB in 44.0 IP

Severino might be one of the most talked about prospects this offseason due to the jump in velocity he experienced last season, adding approximately six to seven MPH on his fastball, which now tops out at 97. Severino has a smooth, easy delivery which leads to good command, and his secondary pitches are coming along nicely. Currently, Severino sports a changeup that has touched 90 MPH, and a slider which has been rated as a potential “plus” pitch. The major drawback to Severino is his size, and it is unknown how his 6-foot, 185-pound frame will hold up over a full season’s workload. The Yankees thought enough of him to bump him up to Charleston last season, and he will likely begin there this year.

15)  Abiatal Avelino, SS, Age 19
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees & Staten Island: .303 BA, 0 HR, 23 RBI, .381 OBP, 28 SB

With Charleston as his likely starting place for the 2014 season, if Abiatal Avelino looks anywhere near as good as he did in his United States debut last year, he will soar up this list by midseason. While his strong defense is his best asset, Avelino has also fared rather well at the plate. He has good contact ability and has shown a good eye. Though not a home run hitter, Avelino has the ability to spray line drives to all fields. He possesses solid speed and good instincts on the base paths. Avelino has star potential, with his floor already being that of a backup shortstop. Though he will probably spend the entire season in Charleston, we could potentially see him in the Bronx as soon as late 2016.

16)  Jose Campos, RHP, Age 21
2013 Statistics with Charleston: 4-2, 3.41 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 77/16 K/BB in 87.0 IP

The “other” pitcher acquired in the Michael Pineda-for-Jesus Montero swap, Campos entered the Yankees organization with a high ceiling. After suffering an elbow injury that cost him the majority of 2012, the organization was cautious with Campos, limiting him to 87 innings pitches in 2013, and never more than four or so in a game. The lack of innings may have stunted his growth a little bit, but the Yankees gave him a 40-man roster spot this offseason, indicating their belief that he can still be a big part of their future. Campos’ ceiling once was that of a top starter, but the injuries and developmental questions have me believing that he may never be better than a third or fourth starter in the major leagues.

17)  Miguel Andujar, 3B, Age 19
2013 Statistics with GCL Yankees: .323 BA, 4 HR, 25 RBI, .368 OBP

Andujar repeated the Gulf Coast League as an 18-year-old last season and showed exactly why the Yankees think so highly of him. He has great contact skills for his age, and is equipped with raw power due to plus bat speed and a smooth swing. It seems likely that his future would be as a middle-of-the-order hitter. He plays well in the field as well, showing above-average range at third base and a good arm. Long-term, he should be able to remain at the hot corner. His biggest drawback is his lack of speed on the base paths. Andujar will likely head to extended spring training before joining Staten Island when their season begins.

18)  Ramon Flores, OF, Age 22
2013 Statistics with Trenton: .260 BA, 6 HR, 55 RBI, .353 OBP

When asked last year what player on his roster had the best opportunity to become a successful major leaguer, Trenton manager Tony Franklin did not hesitate to indicate Ramon Flores. The 22-year-old has an advanced eye at the plate for his age, and possesses good contact skills. However, as a left fielder, he plays a position typically known for generating power at the plate, something that Flores is not really able to do. His defense is very good, and he shows a good deal of range when playing left field, though he indicated he is more comfortable in center field. Though I have no doubt he will get an opportunity at the major league level, it seems likely his ceiling is that of a fourth outfielder.

19)  Bryan Mitchell, RHP, Age 22
2013 Statistics with Tampa & Trenton: 4-11, 4.71 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 120/58 K/BB in 145.1 IP

Mitchell struggled quite a bit with High-A Tampa last season, but looked like an entirely different pitcher when given an opportunity in Trenton. He turned in arguably the best start that was seen at ARM & HAMMER Park all season, striking out ten batters in 7 2/3 innings back in August. With a solid three-pitch repertoire that is highlighted by a plus-plus curveball, Mitchell has all the makings of a mid-rotation major league starter, though some scouts have indicated their belief that Mitchell would fare better out of the bullpen. He will return to Trenton for the start of the season as a member of the Yankees’ 40-man roster, and could earn a mid-season promotion to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with a strong showing.

20)  Rob Refsnyder, 2B, Age 23
2013 Statistics with Charleston & Tampa: .293 BA, 6 HR, 57 RBI, .413 OBP, 23 SB

“All Rob Refsnyder does is hit,” one scout told me when asked about the fifth round pick in the 2012 draft. His contact skills are above average, and his 23 stolen bases highlight his speed on the basepaths. The same scout indicated that one of Refsnyder’s best assets is his eye at the plate, which is quite advanced for a 23-year-old. The biggest drawback on Refsnyder is that his defense needs a lot of work. Having conquered Tampa at the plate, Refsnyder could open the season in Trenton, and with improved defense, will shoot up this list by mid-season. With Robinson Cano now in Seattle, it appears that Refsnyder is in prime position to be the Yankees’ second baseman of the future, and if he continues at his current development rate, could be set to take over the position sometime in 2015.

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Baseball America, the premiere website for minor league baseball coverage, released their annual list of the top 10 New York Yankees prospects on Monday. To no one’s surprise, catcher Gary Sanchez topped the list, which was compiled by former Trenton Thunder beat writer Josh Norris.

Slade Heathcott, who was finally getting on track in Trenton before a late-season knee injury, came in second on the list, with his replacement in Trenton, Mason Williams, being listed third. J.R. Murphy, who began the year with the Thunder before earning a promotion to Triple-A and eventually to New York, was believed to have a legitimate chance to be the Yankees’ starting catcher in 2014 before the Brian McCann acquisition. Now, he is likely headed back to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre as the fourth-ranked prospect in the organization.

The next three spots went to three first-round selections from 2013: Eric Jagielo, a power-hitting third baseman was fifth, with Aaron Judge and Ian Clarkin ranking sixth and seventh. Converted first baseman Greg Bird, right-handed pitcher Luis Severino, and second baseman Gosuke Katoh rounded out the top 10. The full list is below:

1. C Gary Sanchez
2. OF Slade Heathcott
3. OF Mason Williams
4. C J.R. Murphy
5. 3B Eric Jagielo
6. OF Aaron Judge
7. LHP Ian Clarkin
8. 1B Greg Bird
9. RHP Luis Severino
10. 2B Gosuke Katoh

Norris might be one of the best in the business, and has years of experience observing prospects in the New York Yankees farm system. But I must disagree with him on a couple of these. Last offseason, Tyler Austin came in ranked fourth on Baseball America’s list, and Jose Ramirez was listed as having the best fastball and the best change-up in the system. Yet neither of those players made this year’s list. For Austin, the fall was even more significant as he did not make Norris’ list of “Top 15 players 25 & under.” This comes on the heels of a season Austin missed a good chunk of the Eastern League’s second half due to a wrist injury, and was shut down in Arizona Fall League play.

After seeing both Ramirez and Austin throughout the season, I’m convinced that both belong in the top 10, and I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised to see Ramirez make a big impact in the second half of 2014. I would rank him ahead of both Clarkin and Severino, the only two pitchers to make this year’s list, and probably slot him in ahead of Eric Jagielo and Aaron Judge due to his track record. Austin’s stock took a definite hit, but to drop him out of the top 10, that’s something I’m not completely ready to do just yet.

Dan is Examiner.com’s beat writer for the New York Yankees and the Trenton Thunder and a minor league contributor to BronxPinstripes.com. Follow him on Twitter at @danpfeiffer74 for all the latest New York Yankees news.

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(PR)(TRENTON, NJ) MiLB.com, the official website of Minor League Baseball, has named the Trenton Thunder, Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, “Team of the Year” following a three week online voting period this month. The honor is part of the annual “MiLBY” Awards which are presented by MiLB.com each fall.

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As the New York Yankees prepare to get another series started, it’s time to take a look once again at which career milestones are in play for some Yankee stars.

Second baseman Robinson Cano has 202 career home runs, which leaves him tied with Bill Dickey for 15^th place on the Yankees’ all-time list. One more blast would move Cano into a tie with Roger Maris (203) for 14^th place. In theory, Cano could plausibly tie Dave Winfield (205) for 13^th place in this series.

While on the topic of home runs, Mark Reynolds stands two shy of the 200 home run mark, which will serve as a nice career milestone for one of the Yankees’ newest additions.

Derek Jeter is the only other Yankee approaching milestones at the plate. The Yankees captain needs just two hits to tie Eddie Collins, Sr. (3,313) for ninth place on Baseball’s all-time list. Jeter is also just eight hits away from tying Paul Molitor (3,319) for eighth place.

Hits aren’t the only milestone in play for Jeter. He remains stuck on 348 steals, just two shy of hitting the 350 mark for his career.

Multiple relief pitchers could also achieve milestones in the upcoming series. David Robertson, who currently has 328 games pitches, trails Jeff Nelson (331) for 15^th place on the Yankees’ all-time list. Mariano Rivera’s 1,163 strikeouts leaves him four shy of Bob Shawkey (1,167) for eighth place on the Yankees’ all-time strikeouts list.

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One of the interns for the Trenton Thunder asked me not too long ago what my favorite part about being a sports writer was. Plain and simple, it’s the access, and the Double-A level where I am credentialed is probably the perfect spot to be at. For the most part, you are talking with players who have the potential to be impact players someday, but you are getting a chance to really sit down and chat with them, and you see how willing they are to tell their story. This week, I got a chance to sit down with one of the Thunder’s newest additions, top prospect Mason Williams. Despite being blasted last year as immature after a DUI arrest while with the Tampa Yankees, Williams really is a genuinely nice kid. He’s soft-spoken, yet so immensely talented that he immediately commands respect. He’s had a difficult time at the plate thus far for Trenton, but he’s getting the same cup of coffee in Double-A that triggered some of the successes Ramon Flores and J.R. Murphy had in 2013.

*****

Q: In your first couple of weeks in Double-A, what have you had to change in your approach now that you’ve moved up to the upper levels of the minor leagues?

A: Definitely by seeing more pitches here. You’re most likely really only going to get one pitch to hit, and you have to hit it, not foul it off or miss it. But I’m definitely now concentrating on trying to see more pitches and being more selective.

Q: You got a late season promotion much like Tyler (Austin) and (Ramon) Flores did last year. Do you think it will give you an advantage going into next year? How so?

A: Absolutely. Right now, I’m here really trying to get used to the Double-A life, just trying to get my feet wet. Definitely just trying to pick up on the little things that have a different (feel) than High-A. But yeah, I think it’s definitely going to give me an advantage for next year and hopefully I’ll have a little more confidence.

Q: With the talk about confidence…The batting average hasn’t really been there so far, but you have hit safely in seven of your last ten (games). Is that something where you’re able to look at it and at least build some confidence off the fact that game by game, you’re seeing enough pitches to get on base?

A: Even if I don’t get a hit, if I can make a play defensively or, for instance last night we had extra innings, and I didn’t have any hits going into the tenth inning. I actually did something, put a bunt down that actually helped us win the game. If I can do anything like that to help us win, especially when we’re in a playoff run right now. You know, anything I can do to help the team get a win and help us make the playoff run.

Q: Last year you lost some development time to the shoulder injury (torn labrum). What is one skill you feel you’ve improved this year?

A: I would probably say I’m a little smarter baseball player than last year. I just really want to get smarter, whether it’s on the bases, defensively, hitting. I would say numbers don’t mean too much to me right now. Especially coming from High-A and now I’m here adjusting to life. Right now I’m more focused on making a playoff run. If I can get a little smarter as a baseball player overall, I should be okay.

Q: You’re the latest in a line of major outfield prospects in Trenton – Heathcott, Flores, Austin – do you feel any additional pressure to measure up to what some of them have done this year?

A: No, not really. Whatever I do out there in the game, I still have to play my game, my style of play. Obviously everyone knows those other guys can play outstanding and they’re all great players. I’m just trying to take it day-by-day and play my style of ball.

*****

I also got Williams’ manager, Tony Franklin, in on the action, asking about his early returns on Mason’s abilities and needs for improvement.

Q: You’ve now had Mason for about two weeks. What are your early opinions as to what he needs to improve on, and where is he already equivalent or better to the level?

A: I can tell you this. He hasn’t been here long enough to reflect on anything. We threw him right into the mix here. No doubt this game is going so fast for him right now that he doesn’t even have a chance to think. All he knows is he needs to show up and play everyday (with) no time to think about what they’re really trying to do to him. We’ve got guys talking to him, things of that nature, but until this is over and you’ve got a chance to sit and reflect on what actually happened to you, you’re not going to see what actually is going on. I asked Mason about four games ago, ‘How many times have you walked since you’ve been here?’ And the reason I asked him that is because the first pitch he saw that he could put a bat on, he swung at it. But that’s what most youngsters do. The first fastball they see, they want to hit and we’re always trying to get him to just slow down and think with a little clarity, because you’re going so fast you’re not thinking real clear. But when you slow down, you see what pitch is coming and you take a pitch, then you get ball one, and you might ball two, then you’re in a good hitter’s count and you might get a good fastball to hit and that’s all I need him to do. Slow down, take some pitches, take your walks. I think that’s one area he needs to improve on – take your walks, get on base because you’re at the top of the order and you’re a pretty good player because I think everything else’ll fall into place. I think he’s got the ability to hit. He’s certainly got the ability to play defense. It’s just a matter of being a little more consistent with his game. Getting on base, increasing his on-base percentage and things of that nature. Once he does that, I think he’ll be fine. He’s like most youngsters…he wants to hit. But most young hitters, they want to trade good at-bats for hits. They want hits, because their averages are reflective of what they’ve done.

*****

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With major league rosters set to expand to 40 players on Sunday and the Triple-A baseball season ending on Monday, one can expect to see some new (and some old) faces in the New York Yankees clubhouse by the conclusion of Labor Day weekend. Every year, teams add a couple of extra arms for their bullpen, a third catcher, and maybe a utility player. In order to simply reach that goal, the Yankees will have to open one additional spot on their 40-man roster – and could potentially need to open as many as three in order to fit those onto the roster they would like. Sounds like a challenge, right? Not as much as one would think.

Clearing some room
The Yankees currently have a full house on the 40-man roster, so adding players such as J.R. Murphy or Ronnier Mustelier would require making a few moves. The most clear-cut move would be transferring Jayson Nix to the 60-day disabled list. He won’t be back this season, likely even if the Yankees were to make the postseason, so there’s no harm in that move. Travis Hafner could also be a casualty. Currently on the 15-day DL, he’s just starting “tee-and-toss” now, so he’s at least a couple weeks away. Hafner could be transferred to the 60-day disabled list or designated for assignment – it’s not like he was an irreplaceable piece before getting hurt, and he wouldn’t have much of a role should he return this season. The Yankees could also elect to transfer Zoilo Almonte to the 60-day disabled list, but I get the sense they’d like to avoid that if possible. So, with that in mind, let’s look at “who’s in, who’s out” for the month of September.

Third catcher
On the 40: None
Other options: J.R. Murphy, Bobby Wilson

A third catcher will be added – that is a near virtual certainty. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre isn’t heading to the playoffs, so promoting a youngster like Murphy will not take away any everyday playing time that he would have received. Joe Girardi may prefer the veteran option of Bobby Wilson, but he is really a poor man’s version of Chris Stewart. Murphy has improved significantly on defense this season and may already have a better bat than either Stewart or Austin Romine. He’ll likely compete for a big league job in 2014, and he will need to be added to the 40-man in order for the Yankees to protect him from the Rule V draft, so there is not much harm in adding him a few months early. If promoted and given an opportunity to play, Murphy could relegate Chris Stewart to the third catcher’s role within just a couple weeks.

Infielders
On the 40: David Adams
Other options: Brent Lillibridge, Alberto Gonzalez, Addison Maruszak

Adams is a lock to be recalled, and his ability to play three infield positions makes him a valuable piece off the bench in September. That versatility is also seen in Brent Lillibridge and Alberto Gonzalez, though neither player offers much at the plate. A third option is Addison Maruszak, a younger player with no big league experience. I made the case for Maruszak to be added to the 40-man last year to protect him from the Rule V draft. He projects as a Joe McEwing-type of player, offering enough versatility to play any position on the field effectively, and he might offer more at the plate than Lillibridge or Gonzalez. I think adding Maruszak is a long shot, but any of the three players mentioned could get a shot if the Yankees transfer Jayson Nix to the 60-day DL.

Outfielders
On the 40: Melky Mesa, Ramon Flores
Other options: Ronnier Mustelier, Adonis Garcia

Neither option on the 40-man roster is a great one right now. Melky Mesa has been dealing with a hamstring problem with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and Flores is still down in Trenton, where they are likely headed for the playoffs. He’d be better served getting regular at-bats there even if the Yankees believed he were anywhere near ready, which they don’t. Should Mesa be able to go, they may give him a chance to serve as depth in the outfield. If not Mesa, Adonis Garcia could get a chance, though I doubt it. His numbers have been underwhelming in Scranton, and the Yankees don’t need another left-handed hitting outfielder. The wildcard here is Ronnier Mustelier. A strong right-handed bat, “Musty” can play adequate defense at third base and the outfield corners, and has seen time at second base before. He is one of the few players that could provide a serious impact if given a chance. But at 29 years old, I’m unsure the Yankees want to burn a 40-man spot on him solely for a September call-up.

Long Relief
On the 40: Brett Marshall, Nik Turley, Jose Ramirez, Michael Pineda
Other options: Chase Whitley, Chris Bootcheck

I don’t like the term “mopup.” If you’re adding a player to your team in September, it’s because you believe they have enough talent to contribute something down the stretch, or because you want to get some form of evaluation done on them. Brett Marshall struggled during his first season at Triple-A, but with Andy Pettitte likely gone next year and Hiroki Kuroda possibly leaving as well, the Yankees should look to see if Marshall is anywhere near ready to compete for a rotation spot. Of the four on the 40-man, I think he is the only one likely to be promoted, since Ramirez and Pineda are on the disabled list, and Turley is still down in Double-A. Chris Bootcheck and Chase Whitley present a pair of intriguing long relief options. Bootcheck has pitched phenomenal for Scranton this season, and could be an effective piece, but is not likely to be back next season. Whitley is a prospect who needs to be added to the 40-man during the winter anyways. I’ve always been high on him, and would really like to see him get a chance.

Extra relievers
On the 40: Preston Claiborne, Dellin Betances
Other options: David Herndon, Matt Daley, Cesar Cabral, Sam Demel, Jim Miller, Fransisco Rondon

Betances and Claiborne are both virtual locks to return to the big leagues in September as they prepare to step into more significant roles for the 2014 season. Because of this, coupled with the possible addition of a long reliever such as Marshall or Whitley, it remains to be seen how many “on the bubble” guys get a chance to get to the Bronx. The Yankees could add someone like Herndon in an effort to keep him past this season. Additionally, the Yankees could opt to add another left-hander, opening the door for either Cabral or Rondon, who began the season on the 40-man roster before being designated for assignment. If the Yankees elect to add anyone from this group to the 40-man roster, it appears likely that they do not see more than a couple of innings of work in the season’s final month.

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Several players have an opportunity to reach personal milestones during this weekend’s series, moving them higher on all-time lists for the New York Yankees and Major League Baseball.

Robinson Cano has 201 career home runs. He needs just one home run to tie Bill Dickey (202) for 15^th place on the Yankees’ all-time home runs list.

Derek Jeter has enters Friday with 1,257 career runs batted in. With just one more RBI, he will surpass Bernie Williams (1,257) for sole possession of sixth place on the Yankees’ all-time runs batted in list. Jeter can also move up the all-time hits list this weekend. With 3,311 hits to his name, he is just two hits from tying Eddie Collins, Sr. (3,313) for ninth place on Baseball’s all-time list. Jeter is also within striking distance of Paul Molitor (3,319), needing just eight more hits to tie for eighth place on Baseball’s all-time hits list. As if those milestones weren’t enough, Jeter’s 348 stolen bases leave him just two steals shy of reaching 350 career stolen bases.

Mark Reynolds, who has 198 career home runs, is just two shy of reaching 200 career home runs.

To close out the list is none other than Mariano Rivera. Baseball’s all-time saves has recorded 1,163 strikeouts over his illustrious career, and now needs just four strikeouts to tie Bob Shawkey (1,167) for eighth place on the Yankees’ all-time strikeouts list.

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After months of speculation about his future, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez was suspended for a total of 211 games on Monday, which will carry him at least through the end of the 2014 season. His suspension will begin on Thursday.

The 38-year-old’s suspension comes due to his involvement in the scandal surrounding the Miami-based Biogenesis anti-aging clinic. Rodriguez’s suspension also stems from subsequent efforts to obstruct evidence that he purchased HGH and other performance-enhancing drugs from clinic owner Anthony Bosch. This comes according to a statement released from the Commissioner Bud Selig’s office. Part of the text is below:

“Rodriguez’s discipline under the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program is based on his use and possession of numerous forms of prohibited performance-enhancing substances, including Testosterone and human Growth Hormone, over the course of multiple years. Rodriguez’s discipline under the Basic Agreement is for attempting to cover-up his violations of the Program by engaging in a course of conduct intended to obstruct and frustrate the Office of the Commissioner’s investigation. The suspension, which will become effective on Thursday, August 8th, will cover 211 Championship Season games and any 2013 Postseason games in which Rodriguez otherwise would have been eligible to play.”

Rodriguez’s suspension becomes the longest non-lifetime ban in the history of Major League Baseball.

A-Rod, who had previously vowed to fight any suspension in the past, will file an appeal of the ban and have his case heard in front of an independent arbitrator later this year. Since he will be allowed to continue playing for the Yankees until his appeal is resolved, Rodriguez will make his season debut with the team on Monday night in Chicago.

Rodriguez expressed his beliefs during a Friday night press conference that performance-enhancing drugs were bad for baseball and needed to be eliminated.

“I think we all agree that we want to get rid of PEDs,” said Rodriguez. “That’s a must. I think all the players feel that way.”

During that same press conference, Rodriguez indicated his belief that the Yankees and Major League Baseball were conspiring to keep him off the field.

“There’s more than one party that benefits from me not ever stepping back on the field,” Rodriguez had said. “That’s not my teammates, and that’s not the Yankees fans.”

Rodriguez acknowledged that he felt singled out by the process, referring to himself as “the pink elephant in the room.” It was these explosive remarks which caused Major League Baseball to refuse to continue negotiations on a potential deal.

The three-time American League MVP currently ranks fifth on Major League Baseball’s all-time home runs list with 647 and is just 99 hits shy of reaching the 3,000 plateau. He has yet to play in 2013 as he works his way back from off-season hip surgery and more recently, a Grade 1 quad strain.

During his weekend rehab assignment from that quad strain, Rodriguez went 1-for-2 with a home run and five walks in two games with the Double-A Trenton Thunder.

Follow Dan on Twitter at @danpfeiffer74 for all the latest New York Yankees news.

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TRENTON, NJ – Friday night sparked a media frenzy at ARM & HAMMER Park, as a standing room crowd and more than 150 media members from around the country descended on the tiny, 6,100 seat stadium and 20-person press box. I must say, Bill Cook, the Thunder media relations guru, did a fantastic job keeping all of us writers organized in what was certainly one of the most chaotic nights that New Jersey’s capital has seen in a long time.

Rodriguez went 1-for-2 with a walk on the evening, blasting a monster home run and striking out against the Phillies top pitching prospect, Jesse Biddle.  Afterwards, A-Rod took ten minutes worth of questions with media from around the country. Bonus points for our readers if you can guess which question I asked of Rodriguez.

Q: I have two young sons who love the sport and idolize you, what would you want them to know about you and your career?
A: That I love the game. This game has been very good to me for a long time. It’s all I’ve ever done. I love the game, I appreciate the game.

Q: How’d you feel?
A: I felt good. It’s probably the best I’ve felt since we started this process. I feel like I’m there, I’m ready to go. Feel 100%.

Q: Are you confident you’re going to be in Chicago on Monday?
A: Yep. Unless I get hit by lightning, and these days, you never know.

Q: Are you prepared to fight Bud Selig on any suspensions he may hand down?
A: I can’t comment on that right now, there’s still an ongoing investigation. I will follow the due process.

Q: How do you see a happy ending forming?
A: Happy ending? I think to get back on the field, help my teammates win a championship.

Q: What has been the mental challenge of trying to get better, rehabilitate yourself, while also dealing with the hovering suspension?
A: It’s been a challenge. The hips are enoguh of a challenge. It’s been a lot of hard work. I’ve had a lot of great people help me in this process. That alone is a hell of a challenge. Everything else just made it a little more difficult, but that comes with the territory.

Q: With the way you felt tonight, do you think you could help the Yankees tomorrow in San Diego?
A: Oh, yeah. I wish they’d put me on a plane tonight. I wish I could go to San Diego. I can’t wait to see my teammates. I feel like I can help them. I feel like I can help them be a better team.

Q: What do you feel when you hear a lot of people boo. Do you get disappointed?
A: Well, I think there’s a lot of Phillies fans out there, and they probably don’t have good memories from me. That’s part of it. When you’re on the road, and this is a little bit of a road game for us, there’s not a bigger compliment than to be booed on the road, and there’s probably nothing worse than to be booed at home. No one likes to get booed, but on the road, it’s kinda fun.

Q: There were quite a few Yankees fans.
A: Oh there was? Okay. People cheered when I hit that home run. How’d you like it?

Q: Have the Yankees laid out a plan for you?
A: Yeah. So, I spoke to our front office and the plan took place today. Play tomorrow – seven. Short workout Sunday morning and hopefully play Monday in Chicago.

Q: Do you believe you’ll be with the Yankees on Monday?
A: Absolutely.

Q: Do you believe this team feels the same way?
A: Who’s the team?

Q: Your team. The Yankees.
A: I hope so.

Q: You’ve been told the plan is to join them Monday, or thats what you think is going to happen?
A: That was the tentative plan. Of course, I’ve got to get by tomorrow and play Sunday, and that’s the plan. If everything goes well, yes, they told me that.

Q: With all that’s going on, to be so close but which so much swirling around, how does it feel to be that close to getting back?
A: I’m excited, becauase I think I can help the team. I can’t wait to go out and play. I had a great time tonight playing, I felt good. My work was good before the game, and my body’s beginning to react the right way. I think the further I get away from the surgery, the more productive I’m gonna be. I think I’m gonna be better in six months, I think I’m gonna be better in twelve months. But I do like the way the ball is starting to jump off my bat, ball’s coming out my throwing arm, That’s a perfect of example for me of a ball that [in] July, August, September and October I had no chance of really putting in play, and tonight I put it in play for a home run.

Q: I’m thinking more emotionally, in that final week before putting that Yankee uniform back on.
A: I’m excited. I love being a Yankee. I love my teammates. I have a lot of brothers in that clubhouse, we won a World Championship. The plan is to win another one. I’m excited to get back there and compete and keep fighting.

Q: Who did you talk to about the plan for Monday?
A: Cashman.

Q: If these suspensions come to fruition, rest of the season, next year, knowing how much you love playing this game, are you mentally prepared to sit out for almost a year and a half?
A: I’m mentally prepared for five more years. I mean, I’m excited at the way my body’s reacting, especially over the last, I would say. The first ten days in Tampa, those games, I kinda just threw them away. Some of the guys that were here asked if such a long surgery I felt it was going to be so-so. Definitely the last ten games or so, the way my body’s reacting, the ball the way it’s coming off my bat, especially with people throwing mid-90s, I feel like I can play for a long time and be very productive.

Q: If you have to sit out for next year, are you ready to do that?
A: I haven’t thought about it that far. I just know that I’m excited about the way I’m feeling and mentally I’m in a good place because I feel like I can help our team win and be productive.

Q: MLB has supposedly given the players involved until 6 PM Sunday to make a deal. Were you told that?
A: I just came out of a game, it’s the first time I heard it.

Q: Alex, what happens if you’re not allowed to take the field on Monday?
A: There’s a lot of layers to this. So as I go, my job is to do everything I can physically and mentally to go back on the field to help my team win. As for the legal stuff, to me, it’s been confusing. I mean, the one thing I’ve gotten from so many people, so many fans, some teammates, they’re like, ‘What is going on?’ There’s a lot of people that are confused, a lot of people that don’t understand the process, there is a lot of layers. I will say this, there’s more than one party that benefits from me not ever stepping back on the field, and that’s not my teammates, and that’s not the Yankees fans.

Q: Who is it? Who benefits?
A: I can’t tell you that right now, and I hope I never have to.

Q: Do you think that’s a factor in what’s going on?
A: I’ll let you decide that.

Q: You’ve spent 19 years, half your life, as a major league ballplayer. If and when that career comes to and end, should it be your decision?
A: I hope so. Like I said, I can tell you how I feel physically, I can tell you how my body’s reacting, I can be playing against A-ball guys or big league players, to me the competition is with me trying to do what I do. A night like tonight illustrates to me that I can play now and I can play for a long time.

Q: And you want to [for] five more years?
A: I would love to. It’s my life. I’ve said it, I’ve done it my whole life. I’ve been playing it since I was three years old. My father played baseball. It’s the only thing I know how to do. It’s my livelihood.

Q: If it is time to hang it up, what are you going to miss most?
A: I’m not going to answer that question because it’s not time for me to hang it up. I have a lot more fight in me. We have a process.

Q: Why are you being singled out?
A: I’m not sure. I think it’s pretty self-explanatory. I think that’s the pink elephant in the room. I think we all agree that we want to get rid of PEDs. That’s a must. I think all the players feel that way. But when other stuff is going on in the back lot and people are finding creative ways to cancel your contract and stuff like that, I think that’s concerning for me, concerning for present, and I think should be concerning for future players as well. There is a process, I’m excited about the way I feel tonight, and I’m gonna keep fighting. Thanks, guys.

The post Live from Trenton: A-Rod Speaks appeared first on Bronx Pinstripes | BronxPinstripes.com.

With the All-Star Break come and gone, it’s time for our mid-season prospect rankings. There’s some changes at the top, with Rafael DePaula, Jose Ramirez, and and J.R. Murphy being some of the biggest movers. This season has seen the re-emergence of players such as Dellin Betances and Jake Cave. I have seen most players on this list play in person and spoken to scouts about all others. Most of the players on this list can have scouting reports found here.

1)      Gary Sanchez, C, Age 20 – The cream of the crop in terms of Yankees prospects, Sanchez will finish out the year in Tampa before making the jump to Trenton in 2014.

2)     Tyler Austin, OF, Age 21 – Austin is currently on Trenton’s DL, but remains one of the best hitting prospects in the Yankees system. One of the best arms in the outfield, Austin should be able to be a full-time right fielder at the ML level before very long.

3)     Rafael DePaula, RHP, Age 22 – If DePaula were two years younger, he’d be the number three prospect in all of baseball, not just the Yankees farm system. Dynamite fastball can hit mid-to-high 90s.

4)     Slade Heathcott, OF, Age 22 – Heathcott is the most aggressive player in the system and might have the highest ceiling among position players. However, he has yet to play a full season due to injuries, something which could cause him to take a little longer to develop moving forward.

5)     Jose Ramirez, RHP, Age 21 – Ramirez has struggled with his command in AAA and the Yankees may have been a bit too aggressive in promoting him. All the same, he still has an electric fastball and loads of potential. Future #2 starter or dominant closer, depending on his command.

6)     Mason Williams, OF, Age 21 – An immensely talented prospect, but questions about Williams’ maturity have bumped him down the list. Could either be a star in New York or never grow up and bust in Double-A.

7)     Eric Jagielo, 3B, Age 21 – First-round draft pick in 2013 made his debut earlier in July. Great left-handed hitter who could be the new third baseman of the future.

8)     Manny Banuelos, LHP, Age 22 – Missing all of 2013 after Tommy John surgery. Still remains one of the best prospects in the system, and should be in the big leagues by 2015.

9)     J.R. Murphy, C, Age 22 – Murphy’s bat has always been there, but his defense really flourished in 2013, springing him into the top 10 and making him a legitimate contender to open 2014 as the Yankees starting catcher.

10)  Jose Campos, RHP, Age 20 – On an innings limit coming back from an elbow injury, Campos has been very effective in Charleston this season and could be a solid #2/#3 starter down the road.

11)   Ramon Flores, OF, Age 21 – I’m not as high on Flores as most – he’s a corner outfielder with no power, but he has potential to be a fringe starter someday. On 40-man, closer to the bigs than most.

12)  Aaron Judge, OF, Age 21 – The Yankees’ second first-rounder in 2013, Judge has monstrous size and huge power potential. Also has the potential to lead the league in strikeouts. Ability to make the show will depend on how often he can make contact.

13)  Ty Hensley, RHP, Age 19 – After missing most of 2012 following his selection in the first round, Hensley is missing all of 2013 with a hip injury. Quickly losing development time. The potential is there, but Hensley can’t afford another misstep.

14)  Angelo Gumbs, 2B, Age 20 – Gumbs struggled in Tampa before being demoted. One of the best all-around athletes in the system, but needs a lot more work.

15)  Brett Marshall, RHP, Age 23 – Made his ML debut earlier this year. Has struggled a bit in Scranton this year, but come on strong of late. Could be in the mix for a ML job next season. Projection caps as a #4 starter.

16)  Mark Montgomery, RHP, Age 22 – Could be one of the top relief pitchers in the minor leagues. Devastating slider is second to none in the minors. Could be Yankees closer of the future.

17)  David Adams, IF, Age 26 – Back in the major leagues after a brief demotion to Scranton. With uncertainty around Alex Rodriguez, Adams is the immediate future at third base. Has potential to be above-average infielder.

18)  Ian Clarkin, LHP, Age 18 – The Yankees’ third first-rounder in 2013, Clarkin got hurt before making his pro debut. He shouldn’t be out long. Too far away to determine whether he’ll ever make it, but has solid potential.

19)  Zoilo Almonte, OF, Age 24 – Took over as Yankees starting left fielder not long before going down with a sprained ankle. Not a ton more upside, but could be a solid, everyday outfielder for a long time.

20) Nik Turley, LHP, Age 23 – Was an All-Star with Trenton this year. Possesses big fastball/curveball combination and is on 40-man roster. Could be a factor late in 2014.

21)  Peter O’Brien, C, Age 22 – O’Brien’s a power hitter who doesn’t do much else. Decent defender behind the plate for A-ball, but unknown if he’ll stay there long term. Has been playing 3B in Tampa, which has not been a great experiment.

22) Dellin Betances, RHP, Age 25 – Now in the bullpen, Betances has been Scranton’s best pitcher in the last month. Shouldn’t be long before he’s back in the big leagues. Could be a force out of a MLB pen.

23) Corban Joseph, 2B, Age 24 – Not much more upside to Joseph. Primarily 2B, can play a little bit of 1B and 3B. Decent hitter from left-hand side of plate with some pop. Unless Robbie Cano walks, it’s not likely Joseph has much future with the Yankees.

24) Greg Bird, 1B, Age 20 – Bird has one of the nicest swings among players at his age. Good all-around hitter, improving defensive first baseman. Has started to break out in second half of 2013. Could be a rising prospect in off-season rankings.

25) Austin Romine, C, Age 24 – Save for Romine’s big couple of games in the last week, he hasn’t done much with his first real chance in the big leagues. Profiles as a long-term backup: good on defense, not much offense.

26) Austin Aune, SS/OF, Age 19 – I’m too intrigued by his potential to drop him off this list, but he has had a brutal year in the GCL. Defense is not great, he likely won’t stick at shortstop.

27) Tommy Kahnle, RHP, Age 23 – Trenton’s closer has the makings of a solid late-inning reliever at the ML level. Possesses mid-to-high 90s fastball and solid breaking pitch.

28) Jake Cave, OF, Age 20 – Injuries have taken their toll on Cave since being drafted in the sixth round in 2011, but he has loads of potential and has been a solid leadoff hitter for Charleston. Cave is a long way from the major leagues, but could eventually be a good leadoff-type hitter.

29) Rob Refsnyder, 2B, Age 22 – Refsnyder is not a great fielder, but he can really hit. Has been a solid player for Tampa this year and could potentially be a solid backup at the ML level.

30) Rob Segedin, 3B, Age 24 – I’m a believer in Segedin, who was Trenton’s best hitter before suffering a season-ending hip injury. His defense isn’t great, but he has the potential to be a “four corners” utility guy in the majors.

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Since 2002, the Trenton Thunder, Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, have had hundreds of players occupy their locker rooms. They’ve had a couple of different managers and dozens of coaches. However, there has always been one consistent face of the franchise, present for 71 home games each year.

Regardless of the promotion – whether it be fireworks, kids eat free, or hat night – fans have always come out to see Chase, the team’s bat dog. For the past eleven seasons, it has always been about the dogs in Trenton. On Friday night, that was no different, as the team held a combined retirement/13th birthday party for New Jersey’s favorite bat-grabbing golden retriever.

The ceremony was truly touching. Trenton’s media department did a fantastic job compiling a four-minute long tribute video to Chase, showing some of his favorite moments retrieving bats, playing fetch between innings, and even being featured in commercials and on CNN. Joining Chase on his night were plenty of his canine friends, who attended as part of “bring your dog” night. Chase also got to spend some time with his son, Derby, who has taken over the full-time bat dog duties for Trenton, and his grandpup, Champ. Chase’s other son, Ollie, could not be in attendance — he is currently the bat dog for the Eastern League’s New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

For many, the thought was that Chase’s retirement was simply due to his old age. Then, the revelation came from Thunder Senior Vice President of Corporate Sales and Partnerships Eric Lipsman, who owns Chase and Derby: Chase has lymphoma.

“It has been a tough week,” Lipsman said. “He’s had cancer since February. He’s struggled through it. He’s also got severe arthritis, which is why he was hobbled, and if you saw his legs wrapped in blue, and that is from where he’s had intravenous and chemotherapy. But he’s a brave dog, and I just wanted him to be out there to hear those cheers.”

And cheers there were. Though Chase was unable to retrieve one final bat as originally was planned, the fans cheered loud and proud of their bat dog. For many, a hot night in New Jersey’s capital was well-spent celebrating the past eleven years as they came out to say one final goodbye to their friend Chase.

It hasn’t just been tough for fans to say goodbye. During his tenure with the Thunder, Chase has touched several players and coaches as well. Among those mentioned were current Yankees catcher Austin Romine and current Thunder outfielder Slade Heathcott. As Chase lay in the grass for the pre-game ceremony in his honor, Heathcott came out to his side, rubbing his friend’s ears at one point.

“A dog’ll put you in a good mood,” Heathcott said prior to Friday’s game. He didn’t stop smiling the whole time we talked. “It give you kind of a feeling of being back at home.”

That feeling was echoed by several other members of the Thunder, including Zach Nuding, Tyler Austin, and the team’s manager, Tony Franklin. For Franklin, who has been here since 2007, the connection to Chase was a close one.

“They become family,” Franklin added. “So you miss family.”

With Chase, everyone in the organization has viewed him as family for a long time. There is no doubt that everyone will miss him both on and off the field. In the case of Chase the bat dog, retirement has cost the team not only their bat dog and the face of their franchise, but also their friend.

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